Pat Finucane

A memorial mural dedicated to Pat Finucane, a human rights lawyer who was assassinated in 1989 in Belfast. The mural is designed in a deep maroon and white color scheme, prominently featuring a large black-and-white portrait of Pat Finucane on the right-hand side.

Key Elements of the Mural:
1. Tribute to Pat Finucane
The mural starts with "HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST", emphasizing his role in advocating for civil liberties.
His name, "Pat Finucane" (1949–1989), is displayed in large, bold white letters.
Below, the text accuses the British establishment of targeting him and states that he was "executed by Unionist death squads."
This refers to the loyalist paramilitary group (UDA) that assassinated him in his home in collusion with British security forces.
2. Quote by Rosemary Nelson
The mural includes a quote from Rosemary Nelson, another human rights lawyer assassinated in 1999:
"If you don’t defend human rights lawyers, who will defend human rights?"

This reinforces the danger faced by those defending human rights in Northern Ireland during the conflict.
Historical & Political Context
Pat Finucane was a solicitor who defended Republican clients, including members of the IRA.
He was shot dead in front of his family in 1989, an event widely believed to have involved state collusion with loyalist paramilitaries.
His assassination remains a major human rights issue, with calls for a full public inquiry into British government involvement.
The quote by Rosemary Nelson ties his case to wider concerns about the targeting of human rights lawyers in Northern Ireland.
Overall Message
This mural calls for justice for Pat Finucane and highlights the dangers faced by those who challenge the state on human rights issues.
It frames his murder as a political assassination, reinforcing the belief that British state forces facilitated or ignored loyalist violence.
The use of a bold portrait and stark typography makes this a powerful and striking memorial, ensuring that his legacy and case remain in public memory.